In our fast-paced, self-centered world, the idea of “dying to self” can feel foreign or even counterproductive. But what if giving up control over our lives was the key to unlocking true freedom and purpose? In the Bible, Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow Him (Luke 9:23). This is where real transformation begins.
What Does It Mean to Die to Self?
Dying to self is about more than just sacrificing our desires. It’s about letting go of our ego, pride, our culture and the need for control. The Bible says, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). This means we choose God’s will over our own. We surrender our selfishness and allow Christ to guide our decisions and actions.
Many men and women in the Bible were called to leave their culture and familiar environment to follow God. From Abraham to Ruth and Moses, they stepped out of their comfort zones to embrace a divine calling. This shift required leaving behind family, customs, and even security, all in pursuit of a greater purpose. But why does God often require this? The answer lies in the transformation that comes from embracing a new identity in Christ.
Biblical Characters Who Left It All Behind
- Abraham (Genesis 12:1-4)
Abraham was called by God to leave his homeland, Ur of the Chaldeans, and go to a new, unknown land, Canaan. This meant abandoning his cultural roots and trusting in God’s promise to make him the father of a great nation. - Ruth (Ruth 1:16-18)
Ruth, a Moabite, left her native land to follow her mother-in-law, Naomi, to Israel. Ruth famously declared, “Your people will be my people, and your God my God,” adopting Israelite culture and faith. - Moses (Exodus 2-3)
Raised as Egyptian royalty, Moses fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian. Years later, God called him back to Egypt, where he led the Israelites out of slavery, leaving behind his new life as a shepherd in Midian. - Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-50)
Sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph thrived in a foreign culture. Yet, despite being in Egypt, he stayed faithful to God and played a pivotal role in saving his family from famine.
Why Does God Call Us to Leave?
Culture shapes who we are in many ways. It defines our values, language, social roles, and even our sense of belonging. But God often asks us to leave behind familiar culture because it has the power to shape our identity in ways that might not align with His purposes. God desires us to discover a new identity in Christ.
How Culture Shapes Identity
- Beliefs and Values
Culture teaches us what to believe about life, relationships, and morality. A Christian culture might instill biblical principles, while a secular one could lean towards humanistic views. - Language and Communication
The language we speak helps shape how we think and express ourselves, connecting us with our culture’s shared meanings. - Traditions and Customs
Cultural traditions, such as family gatherings and holidays, create a sense of belonging and reinforce our identity as part of a community. - Social Roles
- ourselves and others.
- Symbols and Artifacts
Cultural symbols, clothing, food, and music can reinforce identity, making us feel connected to our heritage. - Sense of Belonging
Culture offers a community where we find belonging, which is vital for our psychological and emotional well-being.
Identity Beyond Culture: A Biblical Perspective
While culture plays a strong role in shaping who we are, the Bible teaches that our ultimate identity transcends it. Galatians 3:28 states, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This highlights that our true identity is found in Christ, regardless of our cultural background.
The Balance Between Culture and Spiritual Identity
While culture provides an earthly sense of belonging, our spiritual identity in Christ is what ultimately defines us. Abraham, Ruth, Moses, and Joseph found their true purpose not by clinging to their cultural heritage, but by stepping into God’s calling. Their identity in God became more significant than the culture they left behind.
Suggestions for Everyday Life
- Embrace Change as Growth
When God calls you to step out of your comfort zone, see it as an opportunity to grow closer to Him. Just as Abraham and Ruth left familiar surroundings, trust that God’s plan is greater than the temporary security of culture. - Find Your Identity in Christ
Your culture may shape parts of who you are, but your true identity is in Christ. Make an effort to align your beliefs, actions, and values with His teachings, rather than solely with societal expectations.
Why Is It Important?
When we cling to our own desires, we often find ourselves feeling lost, frustrated, or unsatisfied. But when we let go and trust God, we experience peace, joy, and fulfillment. As Matthew 16:25 tells us, “Whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.”
This is a profound truth: the more we surrender to God, the more we discover the life He designed for us. This life is full of purpose, hope, and eternal value.
How to Die to Self in Everyday Life
- Start the Day with Surrender: Each morning, begin with a prayer asking God to guide your steps and help you live for Him rather than yourself. A simple prayer of surrender, like “Lord, let Your will be done in my life today,” sets the tone for the day.
- Look for Ways to Serve Others: Jesus modeled humility and service. In John 13:14, He washed His disciples’ feet, showing that greatness is found in serving. Find opportunities to put others first, whether it’s at work, home, or in your community.
Dying to Self Leads to New Life
The process of dying to self is not easy, but it is life-changing. It opens the door to becoming more like Christ, living with purpose, and experiencing true freedom. When we die to ourselves, we make room for the Holy Spirit to work within us, bringing transformation from the inside out.
As Philippians 2:5-8 reminds us, Jesus, though divine, humbled Himself, even to death on a cross. When we follow His example, we discover the profound truth that the way to find life is to first let go of our own.
Prayer for Surrender
Lord, I surrender my desires, plans, and fears to You. Help me to trust You fully, live for You daily, and find freedom in laying down my life for Your sake. Guide me to live with purpose and love as Christ did. Amen.
Conclusion
True freedom and purpose come from surrendering to God and dying to self. This may seem paradoxical, but it’s a biblical truth that can transform your life. When you choose to let go of your will and follow God’s, you’ll find the peace, joy, and fulfillment you’ve been searching for.
